Sonmarg

Location: 81-km From Srinagar, Kashmir
Region, J&KHow To Reach: The nearest airport is that of Badgam Distt, while the
nearest railhead is that at Jammu. Bus services are available at Srinagar
itself.When To Visit: May to September and November to FebruaryWhere To Stay: Hotels, lodges, tourist huts and a Dak BungalowHow To Spend Time: Trekking, Alpine Skiing, Angling, Long walks,
White water rafting, Sledging, Sightseeing, etc.

Set in a sweeping , forested valley at an altitude of
2740m, Sonmarg is one of the smallest hill resorts in Kashmir, once a
popular trekking destination but now having a tight security. Despite of its
heavy military presence, lure plenty of tourist every year to absorb in the
beauty of this gorgeous valley carved by the river Sindh. River Sindh is the
highlight of the meadow, flowing down from snowy heights into the dense
woodlands of firs and silver birches. Sonmarg ( golden meadows) got its name
from the bloom of yellow crocuses that covers the valley in the spring.

Covered with thick forest of sycamore, alpine flowers, silver birch, fir
and pine Sonmarg is rich with various types of flora. In winter, this small
town is covered with snow and reflect a different charm. There are many
excursions from Sonmarg to nearby tourist attractions. The most famous trek
is Amarnath yatra to Amarnath caves. Baltal , which is nearby is cited as a
base camp for starting the Amarnath yatra.

Sights And Activities

Nilagrad
It is the place where streams from Himalayas and Indus river meets and mix
up. The surprising fact of the place is the water here is of red color. It
is believed that water has a curative power and cure skin ailments. On
Sundays people from distance places gathered here to take a dip in the
water.

Krishnasar Lake
Set at a height of 3801m above sea level, Krishnasar Lake is one of many
high altitude lakes in Kashmir valley. This serene and crystal clear lake is
a favorite hunting ground for many fishing enthusiasm.

Baltal
Right at the foot of Zojila Pass, this extreme spectacular grassland is
adjacent to Ladakh territory. Baltal is famous among pilgrims because of its
proximity to Amarnath cave, which is 5km from the place. During the
pilgrimage time, baltal become a camp site for Amarnath yatra.

Thajiwas
The place is about 3km from Sonmarg and covered with glaciers most of the
year. Water falls from the silver sheet of ice is absolutely marvelous. You
can stay at forest rest house or in a tourist hut reside in between Thajiwas
and Sonmarg.